After what feels like a long winter of braving rain, snow, ice, and hat hair(!) the weather is warming-up here in the land of 300 days of sun! Which means we want to get outside and explore, do something different besides a picnic in the local park.
Well, we’ve got some ideas for you! These are the best outdoor adventures for all abilities and interests. Read on to be inspired for your next Central Oregon Vacation.
Take A Hike
Grab your sneakers or hiking boots and go for a hike! Some of our favorite spots to enjoy the natural beauty of the region and within a 30 minute drive of the property are:
Smith Rock State Park, Cove Palisades State Park, Steelhead Falls, the hundreds of miles of BLM Land trails all around the region and just minutes from the property, and many more!
Star Gaze
Grab a blanket and your beverage of choice and find a place on our beautiful lawn at the Crooked River Ranch Cabins to lay and stare at the stars. There is little to no light pollution in the Crooked River Gorge and with clear skies most days, it makes for a perfect place to brush up on your astrology.
Have a Bonfire!
Grab some of our custom s’mores and get cozy by our newly installed SoloStove Fire Pits! Share ghost stories, memories and laughs. A cozy good time is sure to be had by all.
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Visit a Food Truck
Take a stroll on the single track trails just off the back of the property or drive 1 mile down the road to the Over The Edge Taphouse and visit the Food Trucks and grab a drink. With lots of events, including live music every weekend, bingo, bags and more, it’s always a blast; every day of the week!
Go to the High Desert Museum
The High Desert Museum opened in 1982 and brings regional wildlife, culture, art and natural resources together to promote an understanding of the natural and cultural heritage of North America\’s high desert country. They always have fantastic exhibits. It’s worth a trip.
Play the course with the most spectacular golf hole in Oregon
Play a round or two at the Crooked River Ranch Golf Course. The most spectacular hole in golf, the #5 Canyon hole, is a sharp dogleg left and reachable in one if you dare to take the shortcut, cutting off the corner over the canyon. This 18 hole, par 71 course has mesmerizing views and is “player friendly with teeth”.
Fishing
Go fishing at Lake Billy Chinook in Cove Palisades State Park or on the Crooked River. Fishing reports have been excellent for Kokanee and huge bull trout! And the views, eye popping!
ATV/OHV
Check out the Henderson Flats ATV/OHV Trails (open seasonally). Located in the Crooked River National Grassland, the Henderson Flats consist of about 18 miles of marked and rated trails, play areas and a separate beginners loop. The major trails are mostly long, flat and fast loops. The dirt is a mixture of clay and dirt that wind through pine forests and shrubbery.
Disc Golf/ Bocce Ball
Take the afternoon and walk half a mile down the road from the cabins and play a round of Disc Golf at the Coyote\’s Den Disc Golf Course or Bocce at the Bocce Courts.
The Coyote’s Den is very tranquil and scenic, scattered with Junipers and dense patches of sagebrush. Baskets are beautiful orange King Pins with white poles. And there are tee signs to assist with course navigation.
Swimming
Cool off in the Crooked River Ranch pool (open seasonally) on a hot summer afternoon or check out one of the natural “pools” located at Steelhead Falls or Lake Billy Chinook. No matter what type of swimming you consider to be fun, there is an option for all ages and abilities. After a dip in the cool water, curl up for an afternoon nap in the sun. Just don’t forget your sunscreen, as the sun is strong here! 🙂
Stand Up Paddleboarding or Whitewater Rafting
In 2017, Central Oregon was honored as the world’s best place for a SUP (stand up paddleboard) getaway and it’s one of the best ways to take in the areas lakes and rivers from a whole new perspective.
No prior experience is needed and if you want a lesson there are many local shops that offer them and all the gear that you will need for an afternoon of fun on the water. And Fido can come along too! Make sure to get proper gear for your pup if you plan on taking them on your SUPing adventure.
Or, for a little more adventure no matter if you’re a thrill-seeker or a couch potato, whitewater rafting on the Deschutes River is one adventure that belongs on your bucket list for any Bend summer vacation. There’s nothing better on a hot day than a wild ride down the river! Book a trip that fits your style with Sun Country Tours for a full day of adventure and fun.
See you soon at the Crooked River Ranch Cabins. A great place to kick off your boots and stay awhile.
Peacefully,
-Meghan
Owner/Adventurer